The alcoholic orcein solution according to SHIKATA is a specially developed staining solution used in histological and cytological diagnostics. It consists mainly of ethanol, orcein and fuming hydrochloric acid.

In this staining solution, the denatured ethanol with a content of about 70% serves as a solvent and transport medium for the dye. It enables rapid penetration of tissue samples and helps preserve their structure during the staining process.

The natural dye orcein, derived from lichens, is a key component of the solution. Due to its high affinity for elastic fibers and certain types of bacteria, orcein enables differentiated visualization of these structures. Elastic fibers are usually stained brown to black, while certain bacteria take on a red color.

Hydrochloric acid is added to lower the pH of the solution. This promotes the binding of orcein to the cell and tissue structures and improves the quality of the stain.

Overall, SHIKATA alcoholic orcein solution is a powerful tool in histological and cytological diagnosis, allowing detailed and differentiated visualization of elastic fibers, hepatocytes, and certain bacteria